News Details

Farmers Welcome Rainfall

11/9/2015

Multiple days of precipitation slowed the harvesting of the last few remaining acres of corn and soybeans, though most producers were grateful for the additional moisture.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, statewide precipitation averaged more than one inch last week. The rain had an immediate impact on soil moisture, with 62 percent of soil now rated as adequate or surplus moisture, compared to just 41 percent the week before.

Central Illinois agricultural producers will likely keep their “eyes on the sky” as 23 counties are trying to emerge from a moderate drought and they hope area water tables are replenished.

Farmers continue to wrap up their 2015 harvest, with 93 percent of corn and bean acres now complete. During the same time in 2014, 57 percent of corn and 59 percent of soybeans had been harvested.

Many farmers are now tilling fields and waiting for soil temperatures to drop before applying fall nitrogen fertilizer. Across the state, soil temperatures ranged from 45.6 in the north to 56.6 in the south.